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“…For God loves a cheerful giver“ (2 Corinthians 9:7). Through faithful giving, we learn to be free from the hold of wealth and the things money can buy. Giving is a faith practice of the heart, a discipline for those who desire a life focused on God. Paul encouraged: “As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that is really life“ (1 Timothy 6:17-19).

Paul even equated the generous sharing of the believers with worship–thanksgiving to God. He told the church at Corinth that giving is a form of obedience to the Gospel; it is a test of discipleship for mature Christians. “And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work…You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God. Through the testing of this ministry you glorify God by your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Christ and by the generosity of your sharing with them and with all others“ (2 Corinthians 9:8, 11-13). Generous giving is a form of praise to God and a way to be a witness to the Gospel.

Jesus warned his followers that earthly treasures could become an idol: “Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also“ (Luke 12:33-34). He reinforced this teaching by telling them a parable about a man who suddenly died after living a life consumed by getting and having more. “Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions“ (Luke 12:15).

Giving is intimately related to evangelism. As disciples find their heart more and more away from things and to God’s eternal gifts, they demonstrate their faith through shared gifts. These gifts carry the Gospel to the nations and support ministries done in the name of Christ for those struggling with addictions, poverty and hunger.

Adapted from “Toward a Vision for Evangelism,” by Marta Poling-Goldenne and Ted Schroeder

For graphics, see Teach the Faith Graphics Library

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